We will start hiking at the top of the trail and leave a vehicle at the bottom. We will camp overnight along the creek. When we hike out on Sunday, adults will be shuttled back to the top to get their vehicles and pick up the boys at the bottom. This way, we don’t have to hike back up 1700 feet.

You’ll drop 1,700 feet in about 2.5 miles on this trail, enjoying good views of scenic West Clear Creek Canyon along the way. The trail begins on a pinon juniper flat and switchbacks down a moderately steep slope into the canyon. The trail was constructed as a route to move cattle between seasonal pastures. It still serves that purpose, at the same time being a recreational resource for forest visitors.

As you follow its winding route, you’ll want to take time out from watching where you step to take advantage of the excellent view of one of the rarest habitats in the world. West Clear Creek is home to a healthy example of a desert riparian zone. Some would call it an oasis. It supports an exceptionally diverse plant and animal community. Biologists say that up to 80% of Arizona’s wildlife species are dependent on this productive habitat.

The trail arrives at West Clear Creek at an area that is popular for fishing, camping, and just plain splashing around.